Airbnb Market Analytics, Statistics and Data in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States
Last updated: 2025-01-31
Looking to make more money with hosting or rental arbitraging Airbnbs, short-term rentals, vacation rentals in Hilton Head Island? AirROI have just the data insights! Over the last twelve months from February 2024 to January 2025, we've uncovered key trends and opportunities that successful hosts are leveraging in Hilton Head Island:
How much do Airbnb hosts make on average per month in Hilton Head Island?
The short-term rental market in Hilton Head Island shows distinct revenue patterns across different property tiers. Our analysis reveals that successful properties combine strategic pricing with quality management to maximize earnings potential. Market data demonstrates clear revenue differentiation among properties:
- Typical properties (median) earn $3,514 per month
- Strong performing properties (top 25%) make $5,828 or more
- Best-in-class properties (top 10%) achieve $9,515+ monthly
- Entry-level properties (bottom 25%) typically earn around $1,905
Revenue Variations by Month
Occupancy Rates Throughout the Year in Hilton Head Island
The market in Hilton Head Island shows distinct occupancy patterns influenced by seasonal trends and local dynamics. Properties that maintain high guest satisfaction scores and implement strategic pricing consistently achieve stronger occupancy rates. Current market data shows:
- Typical properties (median) maintain 38% occupancy rates
- Strong performing properties (top 25%) achieve 61% or higher
- Best-in-class properties (top 10%) reach 79%+occupancy
- Entry-level properties (bottom 25%) average around 20%
Occupancy Variations by Month
Average Daily Rates Seasonal Trends in Hilton Head Island
Daily rates in Hilton Head Island vary based on seasonality, property quality, and market dynamics. Properties that effectively balance competitive pricing with strong amenities typically command higher rates. Market analysis shows the following rate structure:
- Typical properties (median) generate $258 per night
- Strong performing properties (top 25%) secure $418 or more
- Best-in-class properties (top 10%) pull in $699+ per night
- Entry-level properties (bottom 25%) earn around $183
Daily Rate Variations by Month
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Seasonality patterns in Hilton Head Island
Peak Season (July, June, May)
- Revenue peaks at $7396.35 per month
- Occupancy rates reach 60.21%
- Daily rates average $420.75
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $4749.43 per month
- Occupancy maintains 41.22%
- Daily rates hold at $365.97
Low Season (November, December, January)
- Revenue drops to $2457.64 per month
- Occupancy decreases to 26.14%
- Daily rates adjust to $323.40
Is it still profitable to do Airbnb in Hilton Head Island in 2025?
Yes! Hilton Head Island demonstrates highly seasonal trends requiring strategic adaptation, featuring a growing occupancy rate of 41% and strong monthly revenue averaging $4749 and As a mature market with 4176 active listings, there's strong demand despite the competition. There's also room for profit through rental arbitrage strategies, if you can identify competitively priced properties. To maximize your return on investment, consider employing the following strategies:
Peak Season Strategy
- Implement premium seasonal pricing strategies
- Set longer minimum stay requirements during high-demand periods
- Enforce stricter cancellation policies
Shoulder Season Strategy
- Maintain competitive market-based pricing
- Offer moderate-length stay incentives
- Target a mix of leisure and business travelers with flexible booking terms
- Focus on weekend getaway packages and mid-week business traveler promotions
Low Season Strategy
- Adjust pricing to remain competitive in the market
- Target different guest segments (business travelers, long-term stays, holiday visitors, event attendees, remote workers)
- Create targeted promotional campaigns to drive occupancy
Top Places to Start Airbnb in Hilton Head Island
| Area | Why Choose This Area | Key Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Coligny Beach | Coligny Beach is the most popular public beach access point on Hilton Head Island, known for its wide sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere. It offers easy access to restaurants and shopping, making it a prime location for families and vacationers. | Coligny Plaza, Coligny Beach Park, The Beach Market, Water Sports Rentals, Local Shopping and Dining |
| Sea Pines | Sea Pines is a well-established resort community featuring beautiful scenery, luxury accommodations, and a rich array of recreational activities. It's especially appealing to golf enthusiasts and families looking for a quieter beach experience. | Harbour Town Lighthouse, Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Lawton Stables, South Beach Marina, Golf Courses |
| Palmetto Dunes | Palmetto Dunes is a resort community known for its stunning beach, golf courses, and array of amenities. It draws families and couples seeking an active vacation with opportunities for water sports and relaxation. | Palmetto Dunes Beach, Dunes House, Shelter Cove Marina, Golf Courses, Tennis Facilities |
| Shipyard Plantation | Shipyard Plantation is a peaceful community featuring beautiful landscapes and access to pristine beaches. It appeals to guests looking for a tranquil vacation spot near the action. | Van Der Meer Tennis Center, Shipyard Beach Club, The Shipyard Golf Club, Parkway Golf Club, Natural Trails |
| Forest Beach | Forest Beach is a family-friendly area with easy beach access and nearby amenities. It offers a mix of solitude and activity, making it a versatile spot for vacations. | Forest Beach, The Spot Restaurant, Beach Access Points, Coastal Discovery Museum, Nearby Bike Paths |
| North Forest Beach | North Forest Beach offers a laid-back beach atmosphere with a variety of rental options. Guests can enjoy a more residential vibe while still being close to the beaches and activities. | North Forest Beach, Local Restaurants and Shops, Beach Access, Biking Trails, Water Sports |
| Lowcountry | The Lowcountry area of Hilton Head Island features charming southern culture and scenic landscapes. Ideal for those looking for a unique cultural and gastronomic experience alongside beach access. | Historic Sites, Local Farms, Gullah Culture Experiences, Culinary Tours, Scenic Views |
| Old Town Bluffton | Although just a short drive from Hilton Head, Old Town Bluffton is worth mentioning for its quaint charm and cultural experiences. It's perfect for those who want to experience local culture and history while being close to the beach. | The Bluffton Oyster Co., Old Town Park, Shopping at Calhoun Street, Art Galleries, Festivals and Events |
Do you need a license for Airbnb in Hilton Head Island?
We recommend checking directly with Hilton Head Island's local government regarding short-term rental licensing requirements. Current market data shows limited licensing information (0% of listings), making it essential to verify current regulations before starting your Airbnb business.
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Hilton Head Island
Dory by AvantStay | Walk to the Beach, Luxe Home
Entire Place • 9 bedrooms
2nd Row Home | Sea Pines | Free Golf
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Family Home | Luxury | Walk to Beach | KF3
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Lido by AvantStay | Oceanfront Hilton Head Retreat
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Egret by AvantStay | 10 BR Ocean Estate | 7200 SF
Entire Place • 10 bedrooms
Amazing Home for Large Family Gatherings(up to 23)
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Top Performing Professional Hosts in Hilton Head Island
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Properties | 329 | $7,979,320 | 616 | 1.17/5.0 |
| Host2coast | 176 | $6,271,803 | 913 | 3.06/5.0 |
| Sunset | 213 | $6,260,931 | 958 | 3.03/5.0 |
| Beachside | 99 | $5,881,125 | 699 | 3.58/5.0 |
| Evolve | 147 | $5,259,002 | 5410 | 4.55/5.0 |
| Beach House Boutique | 47 | $4,273,244 | 1384 | 4.58/5.0 |
| AvantStay | 19 | $4,119,413 | 403 | 4.46/5.0 |
| Island Time | 103 | $4,061,881 | 157 | 1.22/5.0 |
| Hilton Head Properties | 108 | $4,012,236 | 219 | 1.85/5.0 |
| Island Rentals Of Hilton Head | 101 | $3,672,306 | 448 | 3.19/5.0 |
Additional analytics on vacation rental, real estate, short term rental data in Hilton Head Island
AirROI also have other key metrics and comprehensive data for your vacation rental, real estate needs. Go explore the advanced metrics that can help you make informed decisions:
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Key Insights
- Market dominated by entire home listings (99.5%), with apartment & condo and house properties comprising 99.4% of inventory
- Untapped potential in boutique & hotels, unique stays, outdoor & mobile segments (0.5% combined)
Room Capacity Distribution
Analysis of 4,176 properties in Hilton Head Island shows that 2 bedrooms properties are most prevalent, making up 46% of the market. The market tends to favor smaller properties, with 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom together representing 65.4% of all listings.
Key Insights
- Most common: 2 bedrooms (46%)
- Least common: 4 bedrooms (6.9%)
- Market concentration: 65.4% in top 2 sizes
- Market skew: Favors smaller properties
Guest Capacity Distribution
Analysis of 4,176 properties in Hilton Head Island reveals that 8+ guests properties dominate the market, representing 37.2% of all listings. The average property accommodates 6.3 guests, with a clear trend towards larger guest capacities. Properties accommodating 8+ guests and 6 guests make up 72.0% of the market.
Key Insights
- Most common capacity: 8+ guests (37.2% of market)
- Least common capacity: 1 guest (0% of market)
- Average guest capacity: 6.3 guests per property
- Market concentration: 72.0% in top 2 capacity sizes
- Market segmentation: Predominantly larger guest capacities
Booking and Availability Patterns
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Among 4,176 properties in Hilton Head Island, the most common availability pattern is 271-366 days (48.6% of properties). For actual bookings, properties most frequently secure bookings for 91-180 days (31.2% of properties).
Key Insights
- Most common availability window: 271-366 days (48.6%)
- Most common booking duration: 91-180 days (31.2%)
- Properties with high availability (180+ days): 79.3%
- Properties with long-term bookings (180+ days): 22.4%
Minimum Stay Distributions
1 Night
294 listings
8.2% of total
2 Nights
969 listings
26.9% of total
3 Nights
1332 listings
37% of total
4-6 Nights
593 listings
16.5% of total
7-29 Nights
168 listings
4.7% of total
30+ Nights
247 listings
6.9% of total
Key Insights
- Short stays (1-2 nights) dominate the market at 35.1%
- Mid-length stays (4-6 nights) represent 16.5% of listings
- Monthly+ stays (6.9%) suggest a stable extended-stay market
- High market flexibility with 72.1% accepting 3 nights or less
Recommendations
- Set minimum stays between 2-3 nights to align with market standards
- Adjust minimum stays seasonally based on demand patterns
- Consider monthly stay discounts to capture the growing extended-stay market
- Implement different minimum stays for weekends vs. weekdays
Cancellation Policy Distribution
Super Strict 30 Days
576 listings
16.8% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
485 listings
14.1% of total
Non-refundable
1 listings
0% of total
Refundable
2 listings
0.1% of total
Flexible
126 listings
3.7% of total
Moderate
730 listings
21.3% of total
Firm
902 listings
26.3% of total
Strict
613 listings
17.8% of total
Key Insights
- Firm is the preferred policy at 26.3% of listings
- The market shows a balanced distribution between guest-friendly (25.0%) and strict (44.1%) policies
- Strong market consensus around Firm policies
- Non-refundable policies are least common at 0.0% of listings
Recommendations
- Market supports various policies - choose based on your property type and target guests
- Strong market preference for Firm policies suggests this should be your baseline
Booking Lead Time Trends
Key Insights
- Peak booking lead times occur in Jun, May, Apr, averaging 99 days
- Shortest booking windows are in Sep, Aug, Dec, averaging 66 days
- Spring shows the longest average booking window at 95 days, while Winter has the shortest at 74 days
Recommendations
- Implement dynamic pricing strategies for Spring bookings at least 95 days in advance
- Consider early bird discounts during Winter to encourage longer lead times
- Focus on last-minute booking promotions during Sep-Dec when lead times are shortest
Popular Airbnb Amenities in Hilton Head Island
Below is the distribution of amenities across listings in Hilton Head Island:
Traveler Demographics
Key Insights
- Domestic travelers make up 97% of total guests, indicating a dominant local market share.
- Primary international markets: Canada (1.3%) and DC (0.4%)
- English is the top language at 85.7%, followed by Spanish (9%)
- Notable demographic segment in <=1950s (Pre-1950s (Silent Gen)) at 6.2%
Recommendations
- Target marketing campaigns for Atlanta and Charlotte markets
- Develop localized content for Canada and DC
- Prioritize English and Spanish language support
- Tailor experiences for Pre-1950s (Silent Gen) while maintaining broad age appeal
- Implement seasonal promotions aligned with key market travel patterns
Nearby Markets
Explore short-term rental performance in markets surrounding Hilton Head Island. These nearby markets offer diverse opportunities for property investors and hosts:
| Market | Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Folly Beach | 890 | $6,935 | $512.49 | 48% |
| Sullivan's Island | 25 | $6,312 | $784.12 | 42% |
| Isle of Palms | 906 | $6,251 | $667.10 | 41% |
| Talahi Island | 47 | $6,149 | $324.47 | 50% |
| Charleston | 1,854 | $5,123 | $344.84 | 53% |
| Whitemarsh Island | 73 | $4,363 | $256.42 | 53% |
| Mount Pleasant | 440 | $4,268 | $273.28 | 55% |
| Tybee Island | 1,286 | $4,121 | $387.59 | 41% |
| Fripp Island | 126 | $3,990 | $419.99 | 38% |
| Edisto Island | 24 | $3,934 | $321.74 | 44% |
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